Saudia and Boeing today confirmed an order for up to 49 787 Dreamliner aircraft by the Saudi flag carrier as it seeks to boost its long-range fleet. The airline ordered 39 aircraft of the 787-9 and 787-10 variants. In addition, the agreement includes an option to purchase an additional ten aircraft.
The order was announced together with the one from Riyadh Air, the new national carrier owned by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), for up to 72 Boeing 787. In doing so, the American manufacturer today received orders for up to 121 aircraft from Saudi operators, marking the fifth largest commercial order by value in Boeing’s history.
Saudia orders more Boeing 787, strengthens relationship with manufacturer
The company based in Jeddah, the country’s second largest city, operates more than fifty twin-aisle aircraft developed by Boeing. Its fleet currently includes the 777-300ER, 787-9 and 787-10. The new additions will enable it to strengthen its capacity on long-haul routes while maintaining the uniformity of its equipment.
Ibrahim Al-Omar, CEO of Saudia, said the company «continues its expansion efforts in all aspects, whether it is introducing new destinations or increasing the aircraft fleet». In this regard, he remarked that the new agreement with Boeing will allow Saudia to fulfil its goal of «bringing the world to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia».
«Adding to its 787 Dreamliner fleet will enable Saudia to expand its long-haul service with outstanding range, capacity and efficiency», said Stan Deal, President and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. «After more than 75 years of partnership, we are honored by Saudia’s confidence in Boeing products and will continue to support Saudi Arabia’s goal to expand sustainable air travel», he added.
